GT3 TAKES TRAY SEALING TO THE NEXT LEVEL

Heat sealing specialist Proseal has launched a top-of-the-range tray sealer, designed for fast production lines such as meat products and fresh fruit. Incorporating a variety of innovative features designed to maximise throughput and minimise downtime, including a pioneering three dimensional tray positioning system, the new Proseal GT3 offers a top speed in excess of 180 trays per minute.

The GT3’s unique three axis servo drive tray transfer system helps to maximise tray throughput by automatically adjusting for different tray heights. This eliminates the need for tray height specific change-parts and means that all height settings can be programmed through the user friendly touch screen.

Speeds are further increased for the GT3 Twin with a true twin lane feed control which enables products to be fed independently down each lane.

Another pioneering standard feature is Proseal’s new Internet based secure gateway connection system that is able to provide real time data and error condition support. The system enables Proseal engineers to remotely access the PLC and HMI (touch screen) of each customer’s machine from anywhere in the world, to provide diagnostic support and implement software modifications.

As well as providing remote diagnostics and remedial action, the system can also compile machine condition running data such as packs per minute, temperature settings, seal time and air pressure, all of which can be exported directly into customers’ production monitoring screens. A further advantage is that software updates can be performed with no action required by the customer. The GT3 offers a rugged construction manufactured to food industry approved hygiene standards with full wash-down protection. Tool handling has been made simple, safe and fast with an innovative

‘Free-Lift’ tool loading system, which delivers rapid transfer of pre-heated tool sets to Proseal’s proven Auto Tool Connection. This enables tool changes to be carried out in around three minutes.

Downtime is also minimised by the use of quick-change conveyor belts, and an auto-lock film reel holder. The machine’s practical design is enhanced by situating the electrical controls above the sealing area, which also allows safe access for cleaning.

Other useful features to help maintain consistent operation include a fibre-optic based pot-crush prevention system, plus automatic film snap and film end detection.

For meat applications, the GT3 is available with high speed gas flushing, with reduced cycle time to maximise throughput. The machine can also be specified with high oxygen gas flushing for red meat.

Another key feature of the GT3 is its full-line integration capability. In particular, the machine incorporates an ‘Auto-Restart’ function that activates following any downstream equipment errors, helping to keep line stoppages to an absolute minimum.

“With the GT3, we have once more raised the bar for tray sealer performance,” comments Proseal director Rob Hargreaves.

“Speed is a critical issue for many companies and the GT3 responds to this need while ensuring that efficiencies and pack quality are not compromised in any way.”